Coventry student Ozeivo Akerele: Fans asked to help in search

Ozeivo Akerele had only been in the UK for a few weeks before he went missing

Rugby fans attending a match at the Ricoh Arena will be handed leaflets asking them to help in the search for a missing overseas student from Nigeria.

Ozeivo Akerele, 24, was last seen at Coventry's Iglu nightclub on Spon Street, at 03:30 GMT on 31 January.

He had only been in the country for a few weeks, studying for a masters degree at the city's university.

Police want fans attending the match between Wasps and Gloucester to check outhouses and sheds.

Insp Alistair Orensis said they want people to look for any signs that Mr Akerele might have taken shelter for the night.

His mother Irene travelled from Abuja to help in the search and said she was "begging" anyone with information to come forward.

"I believe Ozzy is still alive. I'm holding on to that hope," she said.

Police believe Mr Akerele may have been on the Foleshill Road, between Park Street and the A444, at about 07:00 on the 31 January.

Insp Orensis appealed for anyone who may have seen him to come forward.

"Dog walkers, canal walkers, these people are the eyes and ears of Coventry - they're the people we require help from," he said.

Mr Akerele is described as black, 6' 2" tall and of slim build. He was last seen wearing jeans, blue and white Converse trainers and a grey or black jacket..